Istanbul’s historic Sehzade Mosque faces deterioration, urgent restoration required

Sehzade Mosque, which Mimar Sinan (Architect Sinan) described as his “apprentice work,” is among the most magnificent mosques in Istanbul. However, the current state of the nearly five-century-old mosque saddens those who see it.

Commissioned by Sultan Suleiman I in Fatih, Istanbul, the mosque has suffered both natural deterioration over time and damage caused by human intervention.

Some of the mosque’s domes have crumbling plaster, certain window frames are broken, and there is significant moss growth on some walls. Additionally, graffiti drawn by individuals on the mosque’s historical walls has not gone unnoticed. Sehzade Mosque, visited daily by thousands of locals and tourists alike, is located near important tourist attractions.

An architectural treasure in need of urgent care

Speaking to Türkiye daily about the significance of Sehzade Mosque and its complex, Sinan Genim stated, “This is an important complex for Istanbul, both as Sinan’s first large-scale work and because of its central location.” He noted that while the structure appears solid, there are visible signs of wear.

Genim emphasized the necessity of establishing dedicated teams to periodically inspect and maintain historical and foundational structures like the Sehzade Mosque.

Periodic maintenance teams comprising various experts should be formed for such structures. Historical buildings should be inspected every fifteen days. This way, minor interventions can prevent major repairs. As far as I know, the foundations do not have such a team. That is why issues become noticeable only when they are severe. At that point, lengthy bureaucratic procedures for tenders become necessary. The solution is to have expert teams capable of handling small repairs on a scheduled basis. We have many historical structures that require our care.

Architect Genim

Commissioned by Sultan Suleiman I for his late son

Sehzade Mosque has a remarkable history. Sultan Suleiman I’s son, Sehzade Mehmed, served as the governor of Manisa before passing away at the age of 22, reportedly due to illness. Heartbroken over the loss of the “most distinguished of the princes,” as he called his son, Sultan Suleiman I commissioned Mimar Sinan to build a mosque in his honor.

Construction of the complex began in 1543 and was completed in August 1548. Sehzade Mehmed’s tomb is also located within the mosque complex.